Social media was awash with condolences yesterday as the theater community mourned the passing of actress and producer Scarlett Beharie.

The Portland-born Beharie succumbed to cancer.

Long-time friend Coleen Douglas took to Facebook and recalled the first time they met as students at The University of the West Indies.

“It was a pleasure to have known you and call you friend. I will miss your cooking, you reading to Kenya, buying Kai her girly stuff, trivia, your dry matter of fact tone, the way you would gently rub my shoulders when I look tired. The way you encouraged me to keep strong when I was at my lowest. The way, no matter what you were going through, you would just turn up to check on me,” Douglas wrote.

“Scarlett and I via whatsapp were discussing life, making the most of it, and just the inevitability of death. She was very frank about her illness as she has always been with me. She said she was not going to make it to December. I tried to rubbish her statement, encouraging her to keep the fighting spirit she had from day one despite the odds,” noted Harris.

David Tulloch of Probemaster Productions also commented on Beharie’s death.

“I can safely say that you were one of the sweetest, genuine people I know, talented at your craft and always persevering. Safe journey, my friend, I will miss our talks and friendly banters. Love you always…Rest In Peace…I rejoice in knowing that you’re at a better place now,” he posted on Facebook.

Beharie’s work in theater includes Last Call,Samson & Di Liar, and most recently Woman Tongue.

— By Richard Johnson

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